A concussion is one of the more common accident injuries we see at our personal injury law firm. They're also one of the most misunderstood accident injuries because they're referred to as “mild traumatic brain injuries” or mild TBIs, and people believe they're nothing to worry about.

However, a concussion can sometimes result in severe, long-term impairments if a person does not receive adequate and timely medical treatment.  It's essential to understand and know the symptoms of a concussion so that you can seek immediate medical care.

If you sustained a head injury in an accident, you could be entitled to compensation for your injuries and damages. Call us today at 816-203-0143 for a free consultation with our Kansas City brain injury attorney.  We'll guide you through the next steps to protect your rights.

Concussions Are Common Accident Injuries in Missouri & Kansas

A concussion is a traumatic brain injury caused by a blow to the head. A jolt to the head caused by a fall, car accident, or other sudden hits to the body can cause a concussion. The brain shifts violently inside the skull because of the blow to the body, causing damage to the brain cells and tissues.

scan of brain of concussion or brain injuryEven though concussions are referred to as “mild” brain injuries, it is crucial to understand they are serious. The consequences of a concussion can include:

  • Post-traumatic cerebral swelling
  • Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (brain degeneration that can occur years after repeated concussions)
  • Post-traumatic epilepsy
  • Post-concussion syndrome (concussion symptoms persist for weeks or months after the injury)
  • Psychosocial consequences (i.e., anxiety, depression, suicide, behavioral changes)

Most cases of mild TBI heal with time and rest.  However, it is best to seek medical attention whenever you have a head injury. Without medical treatment, a head injury could become life-threatening.

What Are the Symptoms of a Concussion?

Concussion symptoms may develop immediately or within hours of a head injury. Some individuals don't develop symptoms for several days or weeks after the injury.  Signs of a concussion include, but are not limited to:

  • Confusion
  • Dizziness
  • Vomiting
  • Blurred vision
  • Nausea
  • Lightheadedness
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Amnesia

Don't ignore these signs.  If you feel “off” or something is not right, seek medical attention. You should also see a doctor immediately if your symptoms do not improve or worsen.

How Can I Tell If My Head Injury is Mild or Severe?

Without medical attention, you may not be able to tell if you have a concussion or whether your concussion is mild or severe. Therefore, it is critical to seek immediate medical attention after a fall, automobile accident, or other injuries.

In addition to the above injuries, signs of a severe brain injury include:

  • Loss of consciousness
  • Seizures or convulsions
  • Headaches that will not go away or become worse
  • Slurred speech
  • Tingling or numbness in the legs or arms
  • Inability to wake up or extreme drowsiness
  • Repeated bouts of nausea or vomiting
  • Increased confusion, agitation, or restlessness
  • Loss of vision
  • Lack of coordination
  • Enlargement of one or both pupils in the eyes

The best way to know whether you have a brain injury or concussion after an accident is to see a physician. A doctor performs several diagnostic tests to determine if you sustained a brain injury. Concussions tests may include physical exams, a review of symptoms, MRIs, CT scans, and neurological exams.

Depending on the outcome of your concussion tests, your doctor may prescribe rest at home or observation in the hospital for 24 to 48 hours. Rest includes avoiding any strenuous mental or physical activity. You want to give your brain time to heal.

Severe brain injury cases require more intensive treatments, including surgeries to remove blood clots, relieve pressure, or repair skull fractures. Medications and rehabilitation therapies may also be used to treat severe brain injuries.

What Is a Concussion Injury Claim Worth in Missouri or Kansas?

Missouri and Kansas law do not provide a formula for calculating the value for a brain injury claim. The value of a brain injury case depends on the facts and circumstances. If your brain injury was caused by the negligence or misconduct of another party, Missouri and Kansas law provide a way to recover fair compensation for your injuries and damages. This includes compensation for lost wages, medical expenses, permanent disability, and pain and suffering.

Our Kansas City personal injury attorney can help you seek compensation for a concussion or other traumatic brain injury. Insurance companies often downplay the severity of concussions. As a result, the insurance company for the at-fault party will do everything to deny or undervalue your injury claim.

Having our experienced personal injury attorney on your side protects you from bad faith insurance practices. It also means that you have someone who understands damages and how to calculate the correct value of your claim. Our attorney helps you hold the at-fault party liable for your brain injury.

Our Kansas City Brain Injury Attorney Can Help

Cases involving concussions and traumatic brain injury can involve complicated legal issues. Our Kansas City brain injury attorney is skilled, experienced, and determined to help you recover the compensation you deserve.

 

If you or a family member sustained a concussion or other brain injury in an accident, we are here to help.  Call us today for a free consultation by calling 816-203-0143 or completing our online contact form.  You can also instantly download our Brain Injury Checklist.  Call us today, we're here to help.

 

Kevin J. McManus
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Kevin McManus is an accident injury and disability lawyer in Kansas City, MO, and Overland Park, KS
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